Little Things Making Utility Bills Higher Across New York

If your electric or water bill feels way higher, you are not alone. A new survey found that over half of Americans say their utility bills cost more now than they did a year ago. A lot of it may come from small things people do every day without even thinking about it.

TVs, Chargers, and Other Things Left Running

Is the TV on even when nobody is watching it? Do phone chargers stay plugged into the wall all the time? The survey found the average home leaves the TV on for about three hours a day just for background noise. It also found that 65% of Americans leave chargers plugged in even when they are not charging anything. Those little things can slowly make your electric bill go up.

Water Use Can Cost More Than You Think

Hot water also plays a big part in your utility bill. The average American spends around 12 minutes in the shower. Some people also leave the water running while brushing their teeth or washing dishes. If you live in New York, especially during the winter, heating water is expensive.

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Small Changes Can Help

The good news is that small changes can help lower your bills. Turn off the TV when nobody is watching. Unplugging chargers when you are done using them. Taking shorter showers. Waiting until the dishwasher or washing machine is full before running it. None of those changes are huge, but together they can help save money over time.